What is the legal term for the process of formally accusing someone of a crime?

The legal term for the process of formally accusing someone of a crime is "indictment." An indictment is a formal charge or accusation that is issued by a grand jury based on the evidence presented by a prosecutor. It signifies that there is sufficient evidence to bring the accused individual to trial. This process is a crucial step in the criminal justice system, as it ensures that an accused person is formally charged and can prepare for legal proceedings.

In contrast, while arrest refers to the act of detaining a person suspected of committing a crime, it does not involve a formal accusation. Arraignment occurs after an indictment or charges have been filed; it is the stage where the accused is brought before the court to hear the charges and enter a plea. Conviction is the result of a trial process where a jury or judge finds the defendant guilty of the charges presented, rather than the process of formally accusing them. The distinction between indictment and these other terms is key to understanding the initial steps in the criminal legal process.